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Slots machine revenue at casinos in Northeast Pennsylvania grew faster than casinos statewide in September compared with the same month a year ago, according to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.

Mount Airy Casino Resort in Monroe County saw slots revenue grow by 6.9 percent, while revenue at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs in Plains Twp. grew by 4.9 percent. Slots revenue statewide grew by only 1.9 percent last month, compared to September 2010. The figure does not include SugarHouse Casino in Philadelphia, which had been open for only part of September 2010.

"Given the uncertainty of the economy and a few bouts of bad weather and flooding, we are pleased to be outperforming last year's numbers," said John Culetsu, Mount Airy executive vice president and general manager. "We've introduced exciting new gaming promotions, featured high-caliber entertainers such as Joan Rivers, and we've focused on providing exceptional customer service. It appears those efforts are paying off."

Despite the increases in revenue numbers, Mohegan Sun President and CEO Bobby Soper said the economy and flooding has had some impact on business at the casino just like other businesses.

"The economy is generally impacting the whole industry. Consumer confidence is still not where it was four years ago, but we have seen some positive signs and hopefully, those trends will continue," Mr. Soper said. "We're pleased with the growth year over year."

For the third quarter, Mohegan Sun was one of three casinos in Pennsylvania that saw slots machine revenue increase compared to the third quarter a year ago. Mohegan Sun saw a 3.3 percent increase.

Statewide, slots revenue decreased 2.6 percent for the quarter ending in September. Mount Airy saw a decrease of 0.9 percent compared to the third quarter of 2010. The statewide third quarter numbers also do not include SugarHouse, which was not open for much of the third quarter of 2010.

Contact the writer: dallabaugh@citizensvoice.com

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